Rigden Weekend is the culmination of the Way of Shambhala I that explored the experiences of contentment, joy, fearlessness, and wisdom in everyday life. The Rigden is a representation of our basic enlightened nature, and embodies the principle of unconditional confidence. According to the Shambhala tradition, Rigdens were enlightened rulers - those who could "rule their world" based on their unwavering experience of basic goodness. Emphasizing our innate and genuine confidence and steadfastness, Acharya Bower will lead an exploration of ways in which we can embody the qualities of the Rigden in our own lives and help bring compassionate and strong leadership to the world.

PRE-REQUISITES: Completion of Shambhala Training Level V: Open Sky AND Way of Shambhala Course 5: Wisdom in Everyday Life. If you are interested in attending and have not completed all the prerequisites, please contact Ruth Wallen.

Please plan to attend a prep/review course on Saturday, Jan. 12, from 9 a.m. to Noon. Contact Ruth Wallen, if you will not be able to attend.

Acharya Emily Bower started practicing in the Shambhala community in 1987 and has been a student of Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche since 1991. She served as his editor for various projects, including his first book, Turning the Mind into an Ally. She has studied kyudo with Kanjuro Shibata Sensei and is a lifelong member of the Dorje Kasung. In 1991, she joined the staff of Karme Chöling, where she lived for three years, working on publicity and marketing. She has been a professional editor since 1987 and, in addition to traveling and teaching in the Shambhala mandala, she continues to work as a book editor and publishing consultant. She lives in Los Angeles.

*We have a generosity policy to make our offerings available to all who wish to participate. If the program price is an obstacle for you, please consider what works for you in your current situation, and offer what you can. Your generosity in offering whatever you can is greatly appreciated. For those who can offer more than the program price, we have a “patron price”. Your generosity in offering the patron price helps cover the costs for others who are not able to pay the full price.

People who have taken this program are welcome to repeat the class for a reduced rate. Please register in advance using the “pay what you can afford” option. Or contact Kathryn Sturch, if you are interested in staffing the program.